Public tip-off leads police in Coffs Harbour to bust illegal drug lab

A tip-off from the public has led police to bust an illegal drug making laboratory in Coffs Harbour, this morning, Monday August 12, 2013.

At around 8:00 am (AEST) police raided a suburban house near the town centre, where they found drug making paraphernalia.

Detective Acting-Inspector Kingsley Chapman said two people have been arrested and are currently being interviewed.

Neighbours noticed a strong chemical smell so the premises have been evacuated for safety

Detective Acting Inspector Kingsley Chapman

He said a strong chemical smell led neighbours to report their suspicions to police."It's a residential address in James Ide Place in Coffs Harbour," he said.

"Police are alleging an active drug laboratory was present and police have arrested a 48 year old Coffs Harbour woman and a 39 year old Coffs Harbour man.

"The premises have been secured and police have summonsed the assistance of Fire and Rescue NSW and are currently awaiting specialist police who are en route from Sydney to assist in the safe execution of the search warrant and processing of the crime scene."

Detective Chapman said it is a very volatile crime scene.

"Neighbours noticed a strong chemical smell so the premises have been evacuated for safety.

"These crime scenes can be quite volatile because of the chemicals involved, that's why specialist police and Fire and Rescue NSW are asked to help."